The Ultimate Guide to Montane Waterproof Jackets

Montane waterproof jackets are designed to perform in the wettest and toughest of conditions. These trail-tested coats are equipped with fully waterproof fabric technologies, weather-resistant zippers and storm flaps, adjustable hoods and cuffs, and ergonomic designs that allow freedom of movement. 

 

Montane's founders, legends of British mountaineering and rock climbing, set out with the mission of creating outerwear equal to the challenge of extreme mountain environments. That dedication to technical excellence continues today across Montane's range of waterproof jackets for men and women.

 

In this detailed guide, we'll explore key features and technologies found in Montane's waterproof jackets. Whether you're an avid hiker seeking guaranteed dryness on long backpacking trips, a trail runner training through spring rains, or a city cyclist needing a commuting rain shell, understanding Montane's innovations will help you choose the right jacket.

 

We'll also highlight top-rated and best-selling waterproof jacket styles from Montane to showcase how these features come together in specific products. Let's dive into the notable technologies that set Montane's waterproof jackets apart.

 

 

Montane Waterproof Jacket Fabrics and Membranes

Montane constructs their waterproof jackets using high-quality, purpose-built face fabrics and breathable membrane laminates. Some key technologies to know include:

 

GORE-TEX 
Many Montane jackets feature various GORE-TEX fabric technologies engineered specifically for durable weather protection and breathability during aerobic activity. Water droplets can't penetrate the GORE-TEX membrane but sweat vapour molecules can escape, preventing that clammy feeling inside the jacket.

 

PERTEX Shield 
An alternative to GORE-TEX, PERTEX Shield sandwiches a waterproof/breathable membrane between a durable nylon outer shell and soft inner lining. It's lighter weight but still keeps rain out while allowing moisture escape.

 

POLARTEC NeoShell 
This air-permeable membrane has billions of tiny pores that stay open even under pressure from wind, precipitation or a backpack. So it maintains breathability when you're active.

 

MONTANE DynoStretch 
For flexibility and ventilation, Montane incorporates two-way stretch fabric panels in high movement areas like the shoulders, underarms, and side panels. These DynoStretch zones maintain weather resistance while eliminating restriction.

 

Montane's mastery of fabric and membrane technologies provides the fundamental waterproofness and breathability needed in a wet weather jacket. Yet the design elements are equally important.

 

 

Innovative Design Features for Comfort and Protection 

Montane outfits their waterproof jackets with tailored features that optimise fit, freedom of movement, and weather protection.

 

Fully Adjustable Hoods 
Many Montane jackets have fully adjustable, helmet-compatible hoods that cinch down over your head securely to keep wind and rain out while preserving visibility.

 

Drawcord Hems & Velcro Cuff Tabs  
Hem drawcords and velcro cuff straps allow adjusting the sleeve and jacket bottom for a dialled-in fit over bare skin, gloves, and base layers. This seals out moisture while the velcro tabs ensure a customisable fit.

 

PODIUM Chassis  
Montane's PODIUM Chassis design adds extra abrasion resistance on the shoulders and upper back to handle backpack straps rubbing. So you stay drier with no wear over time.

 

Taped Seams  
Montane tapes the seams of their waterproof jackets for guaranteed waterproofness. Taping covers the needle holes along seams that could otherwise let water droplets seep through.

 

Packability  
Many Montane waterproof jackets can be packed into their own pocket to create a small, portable bundle so you can easily carry it until needed.

 

Venting Options  
Underarm zip vents, back vents, and perforated stretch areas provide cooling airflow and moisture control when you build up heat and sweat while wearing the jacket.

 

Through close attention to functional details like these, Montane builds waterproof jackets that excel at keeping the elements out and adapting to the needs of active users across different outdoor pursuits.

 

Now let's examine some top Montane waterproof jacket options showcasing these technologies and design elements.

 

 

Montane Men's Endurance Pro Jacket

The Montane Endurance Pro jacket delivers fully guaranteed GORE-TEX waterproof breathable performance for high-energy endeavours like trail running, fastpacking, and cycling. Athletic styling makes it a streamlined wet weather partner.

 

Constructed using three-layer GORE-TEX Active fabric, the Endurance Pro provides reliable storm protection and sweat vapour ventilation. The durable, abrasion-resistant face fabric encases the waterproof GORE-TEX membrane which allows escape of perspiration build-up. 

 

Underarm zip vents offer adjustable air flow so you don't overheat. For full coverage, the helmet-compatible hood adjusts in multiple directions for a secure, peripheral view. Velcro cuff tabs and a drawcord hem seal out wet weather while allowing flexibility for layered insulating layers. 

 

Sturdy front and rear fabric trim protect the main zipper from snagging on packs and gear. And the jacket can be stashed in its own rear pocket when the skies clear.

 

Available in colours like Moroccan Blue, Phoenix Red, Walnut, and Black, the Montane Endurance Pro excels as an ultra-light shell layer for high tempo mountain pursuits.

 

 

Montane Men's Pac Plus Jacket

Optimised for alpine adventures, the Montane Pac Plus jacket provides guaranteed waterproof breathable protection beneath a climbing harness or backpack. The three-layer GORE-TEX Pro fabric withstands rough terrain.

 

Focused on core wet weather defence, the Pac Plus keeps weight down. The minimalist design features a fully adjustable storm hood with reinforced peak, two large hand pockets with water-resistant zips, and elasticated cuffs. 

 

The athletic chassis affords great freedom of movement while ensuring excellent coverage. Chest drawcords and hem cords allow adjustment to seal out wet weather while dynamic stretch side panels vent excess heat.

 

As a streamlined GORE-TEX shell for mountaineering, ski touring, winter hiking, and backpacking, the Pac Plus delivers reliable moisture protection and breathability for comfort on extended trips. Available colourways include Classic Navy, Phoenix Red, Moroccan Blue, and Black.

 

 

Montane Men's Minimus Jacket

For ultralight weight and packability, Montane's Minimus jacket makes an ideal minimalist waterproof shell. The Pertex Shield+ fabric resists heavy rain and wind while weighing just 180 grams.

 

By using the lighter Pertex Shield+ rather than GORE-TEX, Montane minimises bulk and pack size while retaining waterproof breathable performance. The Minimus stuffs down into its own stuff sack for stowing in your pack or attaching to a harness.

 

Targeted features like the roll away storm hood, elasticated cuffs, and water-resistant front zip keep wet weather out. MONTANE DynoStretch panels allow flexibility for arm movement. 

 

As an emergency shell, trail running jacket, or lightweight hiking rain jacket, the Montane Minimus provides wet weather insurance without the bulk when space and weight are at a premium. It's available in colourways like Moroccan Blue, Black, and Chilli Red.

 

 

Montane Women's Atomic Jacket

The Montane Atomic jacket deploys POLARTEC NeoShell fabric for guaranteed waterproof breathability and air permeability, giving this women's-specific shell excellent climate comfort across diverse activities.

 

POLARTEC NeoShell allows escape of internal condensation thanks to the membrane's billions of micropores that stay open even under backpack pressure. So you avoid that muggy feeling even during high exertion in the Atomic jacket.

 

For unmatched freedom of movement, Montane tailored the Atomic with MONTANE DynoStretch fabric panels under the arms, at the shoulders, and along the sides. These zones flex with your body while providing ventilation.

 

The helmet-compatible hood rolls neatly away when not needed while the adjustable hem and elasticated cuffs seal out wet weather. Pockets at the chest and inside provide secure storage.

 

Available in colourways like Moroccan Blue, Purple Ramanas and Black, the Montane Atomic jacket delivers active comfort on trails in wet conditions.

 

 

Montane Women's Stormrider Jacket 

As a rugged mountaineering shell crafted from three layer GORE-TEX Pro, the Montane Stormrider jacket provides durable protection from driving rain, wind, and snow. Fully featured yet streamlined in design.

 

The tightly woven face fabric withstands abrasion from rock and ice while the GORE-TEX membrane prevents external moisture from penetrating inside. Adjustable cuffs, hood, and hem seal out wet weather while pit zips allow venting heat and sweat.

 

Two large zipped front pockets keep essentials close at hand while doubled soft shell fabric on the shoulders and hood resists wear from backpacks and climbing harnesses.

 

Athletic patterning gives the Stormrider jacket a flattering, non-restrictive fit for freedom of movement climbing, skiing, or hiking alpine trails. Colours include Navy, Black, Blue Lagoon and Purple Ramanas.

 

 

Montane Women's Sabretooth Jacket

For lightweight storm protection on trails, choose Montane's Sabretooth jacket. Pertex Shield+ fabric forms an impermeable barrier to wind and rain but with minimal pack weight and bulk.

 

The Pertex Shield+ fabric with durable water repellent coating causes precipitation to bead up and roll off while allowing escape of sweat vapours from within. Weighing just 165 grams, the Sabretooth easily stashes into its own pocket when not needed.  

 

An elastic bound hem and cuffs seal out wet weather while the roll away storm hood provides shelter. Two zipped pockets warm chilled hands.

 

As a lightweight insulating layer, the Sabretooth works well over baselayers and under a shell jacket. Available colours include Jungle Green, Blue Lagoon and Moroccan Blue.

 

 

Choosing Your Montane Waterproof Jacket

As you can see, Montane offers a diverse range of waterproof jackets engineered for comfort and storm protection across many outdoor activities. At Cotswold Outdoor, we're ready to guide you in selecting the perfect Montane waterproof jacket based on your needs. Our team has broad experience testing and reviewing Montane gear across real-world scenarios. 

 

We're happy to explain differences between Montane's fabric technologies and specialised designs to help you identify the best jacket for your adventures. Contact us with any questions or to discuss sizing and fit. 

 

Montane's waterproof jackets keep you moving through the wettest conditions in total comfort. Don't let inclement weather hold you back. Stay dry and protected all year round in Montane.


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